3.2.11

Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.


Dear friend,

Recently there was a Facebook discussion about whether or not a "pay it forward" type of radio campaign was really pleasing to God. Though the actions of individuals in this campaign were good and generous, it was determined that it isn't our actions that please God. Rather it is the state of our heart and our motivation behind what we do that pleases God.

"Faith without works is dead." This comes from James 2:17 and when taken out of context, these words have been the source of much confusion about how we please God. Many believers, and indeed some entire denominations, base their salvation on their works...their good deeds. And not on faith alone. Even in James 2:17, faith comes before any mention of works. Faith MUST be the foundation of any works. Faith first.

The discussion on the value of 'works' and their place in the Christian life is for another devotional...or perhaps series of devotionals! Doing good in the world is certainly not bad or frowned upon by God at all! But before works are ever even mentioned, there is faith. We can work hard and be the biggest "Good Deed Doer" in our sphere of influence, but if there is no faith, then those good deeds are not even on God's radar screen!

Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear. God desires our FAITH in Him. Our belief, devotion and conviction to earnestly follow Him. If we want to please God, that begins and is firmly rooted in our FAITH in Him. Sometimes our focus on faith can mistakenly shift to a focus on what we 'do for God'. But God doesn't reward our good deeds. He rewards our FAITH.

When and where in life have you replaced FAITH with "doing good for God"? Pleasing God and receiving His reward comes by earnestly seeking Him through faith alone.

In Faith,
Holly